Published on Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 9:05:00 AM
Game on, Mount Helena. Council has unanimously given the green light to the long-awaited upgrade of the Elsie Austin changerooms at its Special Council Meeting on Tuesday 2 September 2025.
The $1.5 million project will deliver accessible, inclusive changerooms, upgraded amenities and a new spectator shelter. It will support women and girls, juniors and the growing demand for local sport.
Designed with local clubs and volunteers, the layout works for everyone, including the Starkick all-abilities program, junior teams and senior football sides who have been calling for better storage and fit-for-purpose spaces.
Shire President Paige McNeil said construction is scheduled to begin in late September.
“The new changerooms will be modern and welcoming and will support participation across our community including our Starkick all-abilities players, women and girls, and our senior clubs who use the oval each week.
“This exciting upgrade adds the practical features our community asked for, including ample storage, an expanded kiosk and a spectator shelter so families can cheer on their teams in rain, hail or shine.
“We are grateful for State Government support through the Community Sport and Recreation Facilities Fund, and for the hard work of our local clubs and volunteers who champion participation every week.”
An initial $75,000 commitment in 2021 kicked off planning but the upgrade has grown with strong community backing and become one of the most significant sport investments at Mount Helena in recent years.
Funding includes $525,000 from the State Government and $410,000 from the Community Sport and Recreation Facilities Fund, with the balance from Shire reserves.
The Elsie Austin changerooms upgrade is a priority in the Council Plan 2024-2034, which aims to grow participation in sport and provide welcoming, well-maintained places for the community.
Designs are also underway for changeroom upgrades at Boya Oval and Burkinshaw Oval in Glen Forrest.
This project is part of the WA Government’s PlayOn WA, an exciting initiative to deliver 2,030 community infrastructure items across WA by 2030.
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